Hardeep Singh Puri, the Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister, announced on Saturday the initiation of a plan to establish 100 new biogas plants in Uttar Pradesh. Speaking to the media prior to the opening ceremony of a compressed biogas plant in Badaun, the minister revealed that foundation stones would soon be laid for these biogas plants in eight other districts, and efforts to identify sites for an additional 37 plants were underway.
During the announcement, the Union minister highlighted the inauguration of a new compressed biogas plant in Badaun district and the imminent foundation stone placements in eight other districts. He also noted the completion of the process, including site selection, for the establishment of 37 additional plants. Acknowledging the support of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Puri commended Uttar Pradesh’s progress in various sectors under his leadership, transforming the state from a ‘Bimaru’ state to one that excels in multiple areas.
Providing details about the newly inaugurated plant in Badaun, Puri mentioned its development on 50 acres with an investment of approximately Rs 135 crore, producing about 14 tonnes of compressed biogas daily. He emphasized the significance of biogas in addressing stubble-related issues.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed his endorsement for biogas as the optimal choice under the ‘Waste to Wealth’ program. He highlighted its role in combating smog in the NCR region and contributing to increased income for farmers.
During the press conference, Union Petroleum Secretary Pankaj Jain discussed the incentives provided by the Indian government for establishing compressed biogas plants. He praised the biofuel policy of the Uttar Pradesh government, mentioning grants of up to Rs 20 crore for setting up bio-energy plants under the policy. Jain expressed confidence in the state’s potential for growth in the biogas sector, citing the presence of straw and the government’s commitment, and anticipated significant employment opportunities for the youth.
The announcement aligns with India’s commitments made at COP26 in 2021, including the ambitious “Panchamrit” pledge to reach 500 GW of non-fossil electricity capacity, generate half of all energy from renewables, reduce emissions by 1 billion tonnes by 2030, decrease emissions intensity of GDP by 45%, and achieve net-zero emissions by 2070. India, being the world’s third-largest oil importer and consumer, is taking strides towards reducing dependence on global crude oil sources to meet domestic demand.hhar
